A power controller system configured to electrically supply a load via a circuit is provided. The system comprises, a switching device provided in an electrical pathway for supplying current to the load, a controller configured to open the switching device when a current through or voltage across the switching device exceeds a predetermined level; and an electrical pathway provided parallel to the load to enable load current to continue to flow through the parallel electrical pathway and the load when the switching device is open to dissipate inductive energy stored in the circuit connecting the parallel electrical pathway to the load.